Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered a probe into the alleged medical negligence that reportedly led to the death of Master Nkanu.
Sanwo-Olu gave the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA), following public concern generated by Ms. Adichie’s account of the tragic incident, which occurred on January 7.
In a press statement by Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Sanwo-Olu expressed deep condolences to the grieving family, describing the loss of a child as “a profound tragedy”.
The statement read, “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time.”
The government reaffirmed its zero tolerance for medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the state.
“Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the State,” the statement added.
Ogunyemi said HEFAMAA had already commenced investigation into the matter and had visited the facility involved.
She stated, “The governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to unravelling the immediate and remote causes of the death.”
Ogunyemi explained that the investigation would involve a detailed review of clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties connected to the case.
She said HEFAMAA would also collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure credibility and professionalism in the process.
“The agency will work in close collaboration with the MDCN and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure a holistic, credible, and professional review process,” she stated.
The government assured Lagos residents that the findings of the investigation would be made public.
Ogunyemi said, “Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability.”
She warned that any health facility or professional found culpable would face the full weight of the law.
“Any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct, or regulatory violations will face the full wrath of the law, in accordance with existing legal and regulatory frameworks,” the statement declared.
While urging the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, the statement said, “Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents.”
The government assured Adichie and her family that justice and due process will not be compromised.
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